the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple;
the precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart;
the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes;
the fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever;
the rules of the Lord are true, and righteous altogether.
More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold
sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb.
-Psalm 19: 7-10
This past weekend, our 5 Confirmands, plus two adult advisors and two LSM students serving as small group leaders, headed to the ELCA's event called Lost and Found. It was an amazing weekend filled with laughter, respite, and spiritual renewal. The theme of the weekend, "Sweeter Than Honey" from Psalm 19, taught us to focus more closely on the Law of the Lord, learning and remembering how much we can feel God's guidance, acceptance, and love when we follow God's way of living.
We made new friends in our small groups and in our cabin mates; we praised God in the many songs we sang during large group gatherings and worship; we celebrated each other's gifts in watching the talent show; we asked questions, offered our own perspectives, and listened to others, shaping and growing in our own faith.
The youth spoke overwhelmingly about making connections to others in their group, and the contentment they felt in being able to "go deep" with their groups. For some, this was the first experience they'd had in doing so. They also shared how much they loved the music we sang, and enjoyed the sermon offered during Saturday night's service of worship. They each expressed feeling even more closely bonded to and connected to one another in the time we shared as a St. Mark group. Indeed, this was the highlight of the weekend for me - the chance to grow closer to each one of them individually, as well as the opportunity to strengthen the bond that we share together as a group:
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| "Group High Five" at dinner |
Other joys include...
...This Godsight, spotted on our second night in the beautiful twilight sky:
...the leadership of Tony and our LSM students. It was a particular joy for me to be able to share this ministry with three passionate, engaged, and enthusiastic leaders. I am most grateful to each of them, for the trip would not have been the same without their guidance, faithful example, and good humor.
...Bearing witness to hundreds of seventh and eighth grade students, defying many of the worst stereotypes with which they're commonly labeled. I saw so much kindness, respect, and acceptance among the youth: words of encouragement and praise after an unusual talent show performance; deliberate reaching out to small group members who didn't quite fit in as well; cheerful acceptance and genuine love for peers of every kind.
...and our 5 Confirmands are particularly wonderful. When I think of these 5, I think of them as kids who let their light shine bright, who brighten up dark passages, who reflect the love of Christ, and who seek to help others to know the fullness of God's love for each of us.
Is it any wonder they make me think of bright, shining, twinkling light in dark places, when this is what they choose to do during free time?
Good and Gracious God, thank you for the gift of these young people. Help them to feel your presence in their lives; help them to live in ways that are pleasing and faithful to You. Preserve the kindness, acceptance, tolerance and respect that they so clearly offer this world. Let them continue to fill this dark world with their shining light, and their laughter. Amen.
